1955 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac STS weights approximately 215 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 2008 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2008 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 501 | STS |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2960 mm |
